Located in the Bay of Bengal, Sri Lanka is a tropical island featuring miles of palm-fringed sandy beaches, waves begging to be surfed and azure waters playing home to a splash of local sea life. The natural beauty of the country, combined with its rich cultural heritage, local cuisine and strategic oceanfront positioning, make it one of the best beach holiday destinations in the world.
With over 1000 kilometres of pristine shoreline on offer throughout Sri Lanka, it can be hard to decide which of its many beaches to visit. As such, we’ve combed through them all to handpick a lesser known selection bound to delight every ocean lover and provide the ultimate backdrop for your travel memories.
Mawella Beach, Tangalle
Hidden on the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka, Tangalle is a relatively small fishing village that has somehow managed to evade the attention of tourists, despite the fact that it embodies the island’s most alluring qualities.
Showcasing unspoiled white beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, turquoise waters free of crowds and secluded rocky coves, it’s easy to feel as though you’ve stumbled upon a hidden secret at Mawella Beach. If you’re lucky, you can even catch the shore’s resident sea turtles laying their eggs as the sun sets.
The Indian Ocean’s waters are known as being quite rough, characterized by their persistent undertows. Given that, Mawella Beach manages to provide one of the safest swimming spots in Sri Lanka. Being located a considerable distance away from the main road, swimmers will often even have all three kilometres of its shores to themselves!
Mirissa Beach & Secret Beach, Mirissa
Characterized by clear blue waters filled with coral reef and mossy boulders, Mirissa Beach is widely regarded by Sri Lankan locals as one of the most beautiful in the country. The best part about it is that it has yet to be popularized by tourists, managing to retain the ambiance of a deserted island paradise.
If well-recognized Mirissa Beach isn’t enough of a hidden gem for your tastes, consider checking out the aptly named Secret Beach nearby. This scenic lagoon is quite rocky and not the best spot for leisurely swimming, but snorkelling fanatics will appreciate the abundance of sea life populating its waters. Try to avoid visiting on a windy day, as waves will be too large to enjoy snorkelling in.
While Mirissa Beach is home to plenty of small restaurants serving up fresh fish and hosting seafood barbeques after dark, there’s only one option to feed your hunger at o Secret Beach. That being said, the restaurant does have a bar, so you’ll be able to quench your thirst with a cocktail while catching the sunset.
Jungle Beach, Unawatuna
While Unawatuna’s main beach is incredibly beautiful, it’s generally packed with tourists, rowdy locals and pushy vendors selling overpriced coconuts. As such, the area’s alternative Jungle Beach is more of an ideal destination for those who prefer peace, seclusion and a bit of adventure.
Located over 2 kilometres down a hidden rocky jungle path at the western end of Unawatuna Beach, the calm turquoise waters on offer at Jungle Beach are perfect for swimming. You’ll find a small cafe selling local Sri Lankan dishes, drinks, snacks and sandwiches at the beach’s entrance, as well as a selection of comfortable sun beds. Make sure to turn up early in order to snag one!
Aragum Bay, Pottuvil
Located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, Aragum Bay is known as one of the best surfing destinations in the world. Pro surfers regularly make pilgrimages here to ride the area’s notorious waves, while equipment is available for rent for visitors practicing the sport for the first time.
If surfing isn’t your thing, consider scuba diving at Aragum Bay to explore the shipwrecks below the water’s surface. The lagoon’s scenic landscape provides the perfect backdrop for travel photos, while wild elephants are known to stroll on the beach in the early evenings.
For those feeling waterlogged, consider opting for a boat tour of the area’s Pottuvil Lagoon, taking in the stunning surrounding views at Elephant Rock or visit the reclining Buddha statue in the Hulannuga Caves. Alternatively, grab a book and spend the day lounging about in a hammock under the Sri Lankan sun.
Nilaveli Beach, Trincomali
Translating to the “open land of the moonshine” in Tamil, the Northern Coast’s Nilaveli Beach was once a hotbed of political conflict and ravaged by civil war. Today, the pristine waters of this remote enclave are populated by a vibrant coral reef which plays home to tropical fish of all shapes and sizes. Meanwhile, its sandy beach is surrounded by lush vegetation on all sides.
The water here is incredibly calm, allowing visitors to enjoy the local marine life using even the most basic of snorkelling equipment. Featuring a knee-deep shelf that extends hundreds of meters into the ocean before dropping off, this tranquil beach is an ideal choice for those with toddlers and young children.
When visiting Sri Lanka’s famed beaches, keep in mind that the country’s waters are notorious for their heavy undertows. Lifeguards are a rare sight, so exercise caution and avoid going swimming alone. Be sure to pack considerable amounts of water and sunscreen as well, as Sri Lanka’s rays can be incredibly strong between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm.
Book a ticket, pack your bags and visit the island’s miles of sun kissed shores before word about them spreads to the tourist masses. Whether you’re a swimmer, surfer, snorkeller or all of the above – Sri Lanka’s beaches are bound to cater to even the most selective of travellers’ tastes.
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